The Carolina Panthers made a clear statement of confidence in Bryce Young by picking up his fifth-year option for 2027. And honestly, it’s not hard to see why. Young showed real signs of growth this past season, settling into the role and giving the franchise a reason to believe he can be their long-term answer under center.
But belief in a quarterback only goes so far without the right weapons around him - and that’s where Carolina still has work to do.
Wide receiver remains a glaring need for this team. Yes, Tetairoa McMillan turned heads with an impressive rookie campaign, and Jalen Coker - the undrafted gem from 2024 - continues to look like one of the savvier pickups in recent years.
But beyond those two, things get thin quickly. Xavier Legette hasn’t lived up to expectations, and the depth chart lacks reliable options to stretch the field or consistently win matchups.
So, what’s next? The Panthers are expected to be active in the wide receiver market this offseason - whether that’s through free agency, a trade, or dipping into a deep draft class. But if Carolina wants to make a real splash, there’s one name that stands out: Brandon Aiyuk.
Aiyuk, the dynamic wideout from San Francisco, signed a four-year, $120 million extension with the 49ers before the 2024 season. But that deal hasn’t played out the way either side hoped.
He tore his ACL in October of that year and hasn’t taken the field since. Now, the relationship between Aiyuk and the Niners appears to be on shaky ground - to the point where San Francisco is expected to move on and release him.
There’s no sugarcoating it: Aiyuk comes with risk. He hasn’t played a full season since 2023, and he’s coming off a serious injury. On top of that, reports suggest he distanced himself from the team during his rehab process - something that always raises red flags.
But when he’s healthy? Aiyuk is a difference-maker.
He posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2022 and 2023, including a standout 2023 campaign where he racked up 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. He’s a smooth route-runner with explosive burst and the ability to create separation at all three levels of the field.
Now imagine this: McMillan and Aiyuk lining up outside with Coker working the slot. That’s a trio that could give defensive coordinators sleepless nights.
More importantly, it would give Bryce Young the kind of support system that could help him take the next step in his development. Aiyuk’s presence would command attention, opening things up for the rest of the offense and giving Young a true No. 1 target.
Of course, the big question is whether Aiyuk would even consider coming to Carolina. If the 49ers do release him, he’ll have his pick of destinations - and it’s fair to wonder if the Panthers would be high on his list.
But don’t rule it out. Carolina showed real progress in 2025, and the foundation is starting to take shape.
Aiyuk might see the potential in joining a young, ascending team where he could play a leading role in an evolving offense.
At the very least, the Panthers owe it to themselves to make the call. Players like Aiyuk don’t become available often, and if Carolina is serious about building around Bryce Young, this is the kind of bold move that could accelerate the process.
Keep an eye on this one. It could get interesting.